Why was Daylen Austin arrested? Looking at the charges against Oregon DB ahead of the 2024 season

Oregon DB Daylen Austin has found himself in hot water after his arrest on Monday. He was expected to get more game time in the upcoming 2024 college football season but things seem to be in jeopardy now.

Why was Daylen Austin arrested?

According to the Eugene Police Department, Daylen Austin was arrested in connection to a fatal hit-and-run. The police said in a statement that a 46-year-old man was struck by a car roughly two miles away from the University of Oregon campus, which eventually led to his death.

“This is a complex investigation and EPD is still gathering information to be submitted to the Lane County District Attorney's Office for a final charging decision," police said in a statement.

The police provided limited details on the case and it remains unclear how Daylen Austin is involved in the alleged crime. The cornerback has yet to return to Oregon spring practice following the arrest, as online record show he is still being held in the Lane County jail.

In the state of Oregon, hit-and-run is categorized as a class C felony. Conviction of a class C felony may result in a maximum sentence of up to five years of imprisonment. Individuals found guilty may also be liable to pay fines in some cases.

Oregon’s response to the incident

The University of Oregon has confirmed its awareness of the arrest of Daylen Austin. However, the school has yet to take any action as it awaits further information from the police.

"We are aware of the incident and are awaiting additional information," a spokesperson from the University of Oregon said in a statement.

Austin has been one of the standouts for Oregon in spring practice. The Ducks' defensive back coach, Chris Hampton, conveyed his enthusiasm for Austin's development and anticipated contribution to the team early in April.

“I’ll tell you what, Daylen’s having a really good spring,” Hampton said. “He really is. He can play "star" and he can play corner for us. He’s doing both. Really really fired up about his development and how he’s getting better and better. I think he can have a big season for us.”

Daylen Austin made appearances in three games for the Ducks as a true freshman in 2023. He accumulated a total of 30 defensive snaps, all while maintaining his redshirt status. It is to be seen whether or not he will get the chance to play in the upcoming season.